NYACK, NY – Congressman Mondaire Jones (D-NY) voted to pass the $715 billion surface transportation reauthorization bill, known as the INVEST in America Act, which contains funding for all seven transportation project requests he submitted on behalf of communities in New York’s 17th Congressional District earlier this year. The projects include repairs and enhancements to bridges, roadways, bike lanes, and tunnels throughout Jones’ district.

The INVEST in America Act also includes an amendment introduced by Rep. Jones directing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study on the economic benefits of one-seat ride commuter rail service between urban and suburban areas. The study is a critical step forward in the fight for direct, one-seat rail service between Rockland County and New York City, which Congressman Jones has advocated for since before coming to Congress.

“As we work to Build Back Better from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, it’s critical that we invest in a strong, equitable recovery for all communities,” said Congressman Jones. “That starts by upgrading our essential infrastructure, which is exactly what the INVEST in America Act will do. With over $10 million in funding I requested for projects in New York’s 17th District, this bill will connect communities, promote sustainability, and ensure that our local economy can continue to grow and thrive. And with a study on the economic benefits of one-seat ride commuter rail service, this bill will get us closer than ever to finally securing a one-seat ride from Rockland to New York City. ”

By helping to pass this bill, Jones could secure over $10 million in funding for critical infrastructure projects throughout NY-17. While the funding is not guaranteed until a final bill is passed in the Senate, House passage is a critical step in securing the funding.